Industry Airbus introduces the A220-100 and A220-300

The A220-100 and A220-300 were formerly known as Bombardier C Series CS100 and CS300 respectively. On July 1, 2018, Airbus´ majority stake in the C Series partnership with Bombardier and Investissement Quebec had come into effect.

Following the successful takeover of the C Series program, the European manufacturer decided to rename and integrate the aircraft family to its portfolio, in order to harmonize and unify its line-up. A first A220-300 arrived for a ceremony at Toulouse today, wearing Airbus house colours.

Guillaume Faury, Airbus President Commercial Aircraft said: “Everyone at Airbus has been looking forward to this historic moment. Today, we are thrilled to welcome the A220 to the Airbus family and are honoured to see it wearing its new Airbus colours for the first time [...] I pay tribute to all the women and men at Bombardier and the supply chain who have strived over the past years to bring this fantastic aircraft to the world. The A220 now enters a new phase in its career with all Airbus’ resources behind it to further its commercial success worldwide."

Airbus now owns a majority stake of the C Series programme with 50.01%, while Bombardier still holds 34% and Investissement Quebec 16%.

Eric Schulz, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer, added: “We are enthusiastic about selling the A220 thanks in particular to its technology which gives it a decisive edge in a very competitive market. I have received a lot of positive feedback from customers regarding the aircraft’s outstanding passenger experience, its lower fuel burn, lower weight and quieter engines. All these reasons contribute to my optimism that Airbus will support to make the A220 a great commercial success."

Airbus´ A220 family will be powered by Pratt & Whitney PurePower PW1500G engines, that will ensure high efficiency and low operational costs. Furthermore, the state-of-the-art engines are said to be quieter and have decreased emissions.

The aircraft are optimized for the 100-150 seat market, a market niche, Airbus seeks to close with the transaction. Recently, the manufacturer stated that it expects a demand for nearly 37,400 new aircraft over the next 20 years. Especially 100-150 seater would become a popular choice for airlines in the future.